Oxford Library of Psychology: The Oxford Handbook of Music Therapy

More about the book

Music therapy is rapidly becoming a leading evidence-based psychosocial allied health profession, addressing needs across the lifespan. It involves a collaborative process between therapist and client to explore how music can enhance relational skills while addressing immediate and long-term needs through assessment, treatment planning, implementation, and evaluation. The therapy leverages music's potential to support healing from trauma, pain, and psychological distress, while also fostering the client's existing capabilities. In this comprehensive resource, international experts from ten countries present contemporary music therapy practices, highlighting various models such as Nordoff-Robbins Music Therapy, The Field of Play, Community Music Therapy, and Resource Oriented Music Therapy. The book details how music therapists operate, the populations they serve, and the techniques employed in both individual and group settings. It also covers the research underpinning the field and addresses professional and training issues. Organized into five sections—contexts and populations, models and approaches, methods and techniques, research methods, and training and professional issues—the book serves as a valuable resource for both students and seasoned practitioners. With clear practice descriptions, clinical vignettes, and practical tips, it is an indispensable guide for anyone entering or advancing in the field of music ther